LANSING, MI — September 12, 2025 — The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has unveiled its comprehensive “Make It in Michigan” strategy, a bold economic development framework designed to invest in people, revitalize communities, and attract transformational projects across the state. The strategy reflects a unified Team Michigan approach, strengths-based marketing, placemaking, small business support, and talent retention—positioning Michigan as a top destination for business, innovation, and opportunity.
The initiative has already earned national recognition, contributing to Michigan’s rise to 6th place in CNBC’s Top States for Business and securing the MEDC’s designation as an Accredited Economic Development Organization by the International Economic Development Council—one of only two statewide organizations to receive this honor.
“Make It in Michigan is more than a slogan—it’s a strategy rooted in collaboration, community, and long-term prosperity,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of MEDC. “We’re building on what Michigan does best while creating new pathways for growth and opportunity.”
Team Michigan: Collaboration in Action
Since 2019, MEDC has aligned with state departments and regional partners to break down silos and deliver results. Through the Collaborative Development Council, CEDAM, and the Michigan Economic Developers Association, MEDC coordinates efforts across all ten regions of the state, supported by field staff embedded in local communities.
Strengths-Based Marketing
Michigan’s story is being told through award-winning campaigns like Pure Michigan and You Can in Michigan, highlighting the state’s natural resources, 20% of the world’s freshwater, top-ranked universities, and skilled workforce. These efforts are driving business attraction and reinforcing Michigan’s global reputation.
Placemaking & Quality of Life
Economic development is inseparable from quality of life. Through programs like Revitalization and Placemaking, Michigan Main Street, and Public Spaces Community Places, MEDC is transforming blighted properties and enhancing livability. Recent examples include:
- A $3.5 million loan for 56 residential units and co-working space in downtown Clawson
- A $566,170 grant to convert the second floor of Petoskey’s City Park Grill into workforce housing
Small Business Solutions
With 27 Small Business Support Hubs, 20 SmartZones, and partnerships with the Small Business Development Center, MEDC supported small businesses over 18,400 times between October 2024 and July 2025—empowering entrepreneurs to turn ideas into innovation.
Talent Attraction & Retention
MEDC’s Talent Solutions division and Talent Action Team are working directly with industry and education leaders to upskill workers and retain talent. Highlights include:
- Relaunch of STEAM Ahead
- Support for 914 interns statewide
- $18 million in grants to 14 organizations for PK–12 career exploration
- Engagement with 15,000 students through hands-on learning
- Launch of the Michigander Scholars program to retain tech and engineering talent
These efforts align with the Growing Michigan Together Council and the state’s most ambitious population growth initiative to date.
A Strategy for the Future
“Make It in Michigan” sets a clear vision while empowering local leaders to tailor solutions to their communities. It builds on Michigan’s strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and fosters consensus for long-term prosperity.
To learn more about Michigan’s economic development strategy and why businesses are choosing to Make It in Michigan, visit www.michiganbusiness.org.
